American driving licensing and insurance laws for foreigners

[J1MMY]

A few of us are planning a road trip in the U.S. Later this year or next spring.

We aren't keen on the whole guided tour thing and would prefer to buy a few bikes and a truck or van with a view to either selling at the end of the trip or importing back home. I will certainly be on the look out for some to ship home.

Do you have separate national and state laws on licensing and insurance? We will be on a 30 day visitors visa and aim to get from east to west via the more southern states.

I was hoping that you good folks could give me some clarity on what we can legally do and what (if any) restrictions apply.